Nobody does fall better than the Midwest, and we have compiled the ultimate fall bucket list for Nebraska families. Tell us what you would add!
Cornhusker Football Games
No Nebraska fall list would be complete without mention of the Scarlet and Cream! Everyone should see the “Sea of Red” in person at least once in their lifetime.
Whether you are viewing at Memorial Stadium, the Rail-yard, a tailgate, or your own couch, fun will be had by all!
GOOOOOO BIIIIIIGGGGGG REEEEEEDDDDD!
Be sure to check out our family guide to Husker Game Day with Kids.
Explore Nebraska State Parks
If you are a Nebraska family, this one is a must. What child (and adult for that matter) doesn’t love to run around in the great outdoors? We recommend getting a state park pass which is only $31 annually. Explore Mahoney, Two Rivers, Platter River State Park, Schram Park, and so many others are nearby with activities for all interests. We love climbing the lookout towers for spectacular views of the changing trees and landscapes! Check out the Nebraska State Park website to locate a park near you.
And don’t forget to check out these family-friendly hiking spots in Omaha.
Pumpkin Patches
Open mid-September through Halloween, this short season is jam-packed with so much to do. And a favorite is obviously local pumpkin patches.
We have a lot of great pumpkin patches to visit in Omaha. A few of the highlights for our family are bouncy pillows, trains, hay-rack rides, the carnival games, and there are photo ops galore.
Visit our Pumpkin Patch Guide for more!
*Money Saving Tip: go in September or Monday through Thursday for discount tickets. You can bring your own food and drinks to save, but I do highly recommend trying the pie barn and the fair food.
Bridges of Madison County Tour
Alright, this is Iowa… but is still amazing for a little romantic getaway, solo retreat, or girl’s day trip.
Read the book beforehand, make a stellar sing along-playlist, grab a pumpkin spice latte, and hit the road! Wait until the trees are turning and enjoy the fall foliage, girl talk, and conversation, or download the audible and listen as you drive along. No matter how you go, beauty will be found!
For a self-guided itinerary visit Madison County Half Day Itinerary Here.
Apple Jack Festival
The Annual Apple Jack Festival is a community favorite, and we suggest making the short drive to Nebraska City and see what the buzz is all about. For apple everything and the full list of events, visit the Nebraska City Apple Jack Festival website.
Fall at Village Pointe
At Village Pointe, there are great activities for kids every fall. They have had pumpkin carving and a giant tree of pumpkins, and it is always for a great cause. This year is the Halloween Boo Bash with trick or treating, characters, face painting, and more. Visit Village Pointe for more info.
Oktoberfest
There are several Oktoberfests in Omaha, partially due to the residents with German ancestry, but probably more so due to the Omaha area’s love of brew! One of the most popular celebrations takes place in the Benson area. Beer Corner USA, The German American Society, and Lucky Bucket all have events centering around Oktoberfest. So grab your friends and your steins. Cheers!
Stay At Home
There is so much your family can do in the fall by simply staying home. Playing in the leaves, a pick-up game of football, family crafts & DIYs, watching the games on TV, pumpkin carving, bon-fires or fire pits, movie marathons, baking… the possibilities are endless. Take pictures and make memories! Plus, having your home smell like cinnamon, apples & pumpkin is magical.
Scary Acres for the Big Kids/Grownups
For the big kids and grown-ups alike who enjoy a thrill, what’s more terrifying than walking through a haunted cornfield? Think Children of the Corn first, for an extra fright… Scary Acres is known to be “one of the best and scariest attractions in the Midwest,” check out what the reputation is all about.
Craft Fairs
What could be better than the smell of cinnamon, and the sight of handcrafted items? The Mahowald family favorite craft fair is at the Ralston Arena. There are so many events that accompany this fair. Check it out here.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
I can’t think of a better way to wrap up the fall season than the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The only activity to rival the main meal, the football, and the giving of thanks is this fun event that we watch every year. A little cup of coffee (spiked or not), some hot cocoa for the kiddos, and you’ve got a celebration!
